Product display systems and related methods

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure relates to product display systems and related methods. The product display systems may be configured to display retail products including a substance made or derived from tobacco, or that otherwise incorporate tobacco, and are intended for human consumption in a smokeless form.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

Various types of product display systems that are intended to showcase products sold at retail stores are known in the art. Such product display systems and retail products are often characterized by an advertising or promotional mechanism that is configured to attract consumers to the product display system, as opposed to competitor's products that are often showcased nearby. For example, conventional advertising mechanisms such as animation, motion and sound, lights, music tones, bright colors, etc., may be employed in order to gain consumers attention.

As a result of competing products being sold in close proximity to one another, conventional methods employed to attract a consumer's attention may no longer work in a satisfactory manner to draw the consumer's attention to a specific product. For this reason, product manufacturers, distributors, and retailers are searching for improved methods and mechanisms for gaining a consumer's attention in retail establishments.

Accordingly, it may be desirable to provide improved product display systems and/or retail products that have a unique advertising mechanism in order to better attract consumers to a specific product display system and/or retail product displayed thereby.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure relates to a product display system including a product display assembly and a retail product having a shape-memory alloy incorporated therewith, and a related method. In one aspect, a product display system is provided. The product display system may include a product display assembly. The product display system may also include a retail product positioned in proximity to the product display assembly. The product display system may further include a power source configured to output electrical current. At least one of the product display assembly and the retail product may include a shape-memory alloy. The shape-memory alloy may be configured to change from a first shape to a second shape in response to heat produced from electrical current provided by the power source.

In some embodiments, the power source may include a light-to-power conversion mechanism configured to receive light and output electrical current. The product display system may further include a current storage mechanism configured to store electrical current received from the light-to-power mechanism. The power source may also include a battery.

In some embodiments, the product display system may further include a controller configured to selectively control heating of the shape-memory alloy. The product display system may further include a sensor configured to detect a human presence, the controller being configured to cause heating of the shape-memory alloy in response to detection of the human presence. The sensor may be configured to detect one or more of motion and sound.

In some embodiments, the shape-memory alloy may include a nickel titanium (NiTi) alloy. The shape-memory alloy, in the first shape, may be substantially coplanar with a surface of at least one of the product display assembly and the retail product and, in the second shape, may be non-coplanar with the surface. At least one of the first shape and the second shape of the shape-memory alloy may define a brand name, a logo, a text, a graphic, or a combination thereof.

In some embodiments, at least one of the product display assembly and the retail product may include a heating element configured to receive electrical current from the power source and to heat the shape-memory alloy to at least an austenite start temperature in response thereto. The shape-memory alloy may be configured to change to the second shape from the first shape in response to being heated to a temperature approximately between the austenite start temperature and an austenite finish temperature. The shape-memory alloy may be configured to return to the first shape from the second shape in response to cooling to at least a martensite start temperature.

In an additional aspect, a product display method is provided. The method may include positioning a retail product in proximity to a product display assembly. The method may also include outputting electrical current from a power source to heat a shape-memory alloy of at least one of the product display assembly and the retail product. The method may still further include changing the shape-memory alloy from a first shape to a second shape in response to being heated.

In some embodiments, outputting the electrical current from the power source to heat the shape-memory alloy may include selectively controlling, by a controller, heating of the shape-memory alloy. The shape-memory alloy may include a NiTi alloy. The shape-memory alloy, in the first shape, may be substantially coplanar with a surface of at least one of the product display assembly and the retail product and, in the second shape, may be non-coplanar with the surface.

In some embodiments, outputting the electrical current from the power source to heat the shape-memory alloy may include heating, by a heating element of at least one of the product display assembly and the retail product, the shape-memory alloy to an austenite start temperature in response to receipt of electrical current from the power source. Changing the shape-memory alloy from the first shape to the second shape in response to being heated may include changing, of the shape-memory alloy, to the second shape from the first shape in response to being heated to a temperature approximately between the austenite start temperature and an austenite finish temperature. The method may further include returning, of the shape-memory alloy, to the first shape from the second shape in response to cooling to at least a martensite start temperature.

These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the disclosure will be apparent from a reading of the following detailed description together with the accompanying drawings, which are briefly described below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Having thus described the disclosure in general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1A</figref> illustrates a perspective view of a product display system including a product display assembly and a retail product, wherein a logo of the product display assembly comprises a shape-memory alloy in a first shape according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1B</figref> illustrates a perspective view of the product display system of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1B</figref>, wherein the shape-memory alloy of the logo of the product display assembly is in a second shape;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2A</figref> illustrates a perspective view of a retail product, wherein a logo of the retail product comprises a shape-memory alloy in a first shape according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2B</figref> illustrates a perspective view of the retail product of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2A</figref>, wherein the shape-memory alloy of the logo of the retail product is in a second shape;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> schematically illustrates components of the product display system for causing a shape-memory alloy of a product display assembly and/or a retail product to change shape; and

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> schematically illustrates a product display method according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to certain preferred aspects. These aspects are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art. Indeed, the disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the aspects set forth herein; rather, these aspects are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. As used in the specification, and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an”, “the”, include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

Various products are sold in retail establishments. Such stores often carry a wide variety of types and brands of products from competing manufacturers. By way of example, such stores also often carry tobacco products. The retail market for tobacco products is extremely competitive and manufacturers generally try and differentiate their products using any number of strategies. One of those strategies includes their advertising and marketing tactics; especially their display assemblies in a bricks and mortar retail establishment. In this regard, by way of example, U.S. App. Pub. Nos. 2015/0321787, and 2015/0320113, both to Stebbins et al. and each incorporated herein by reference in their entireties, disclose convertible packaging devices which may be employed to house one or more products during shipment, and display the products at a retail store upon conversion of the devices to a display configuration at the retail store. U.S. Pat. No. 9,072,320 to Coatney et al., discloses promotional packaging configured to hold first and second tobacco products, which may differ from one another, in first and second compartments, and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Thereby, product display systems in a bricks and mortar retail establishment may play an important role in dictating sales of the products associated therewith as a means for distinguishing a certain type and brand of retail product from another.

However, improved systems and methods for displaying retail products may be desirable. More particularly, a product display assembly and/or retail product packaging that utilizes a unique advertising mechanism may be desirable to distinguish a brand or product from competitors. Accordingly, as disclosed herein, product display systems and/or retail products include at least one portion that comprises a shape-memory alloy. The shape-memory alloy of the product display systems and/or retail products is configured to change from a first shape to a second shape and may define a brand name, a logo, a text, a graphic, or a combination thereof, in response to a change in temperature of the alloy. In this manner, the product display systems and methods disclosed herein are improved by way of the incorporation of a shape-memory alloy that provides a unique advertising mechanism.

In this regard, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1A-1B</figref> show an embodiment of a product display system, generally designated <b>100</b>, which is representative of the present disclosure. The product display system <b>100</b> includes a product display assembly <b>102</b> and at least one product <b>200</b>. The product(s) <b>200</b> are positioned in proximity to the product display assembly <b>102</b>, such that the product display assembly <b>102</b> is configured to support, hold, contain, or otherwise position the one or more products <b>200</b>. Thus, the product display assembly <b>102</b> supports the products <b>200</b> such that the products are at least partially externally viewable, accessible, and removable therefrom. In this regard, the products <b>200</b> are offered for sale from the product display assembly <b>102</b>.

The product display assembly <b>102</b>, according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, comprises a rack <b>106</b>. The rack <b>106</b> includes one or more shelves <b>108</b>. The shelves <b>108</b> are configured to support the products <b>200</b> such that the products are at least partially exposed, and thereby visible to a consumer and accessible for removal therefrom. As further illustrated, in some embodiments, the rack <b>106</b> includes one or more panels <b>110</b> configured to display logos, brand names or other product identifiers, images, pricing information, or various other such information and/or graphics. Such panels <b>110</b> thereby assist in gaining consumer attention.

In some aspects, the logos, brand names or other product identifiers, images, pricing information, or various other such information and/or graphics comprise(s) a shape-memory alloy, which is configured to change from a first shape to a second shape in response to heat produced from electrical current provided by a power source.

Shape-memory alloys generally refer to a group of metallic materials that demonstrate the ability to return to some previously defined shape or size when subjected to an appropriate thermal stimulus. Shape-memory alloys are capable of undergoing phase transitions in which their yield strength, stiffness, dimension and/or shape are altered as a function of temperature. Generally, in the low temperature, or martensite phase, shape-memory alloys can be plastically deformed and upon exposure to some higher temperature will transform to an austenite phase, or parent phase, returning to their shape prior to the deformation.

Shape-memory alloys exist in several different temperature-dependent phases. The most commonly utilized of these phases are the so-called martensite and austenite phases. The “martensite phase” generally refers to the more deformable, lower temperature phase whereas the “austenite phase” generally refers to the more rigid, higher temperature phase. When the shape-memory alloy is in the martensite phase and is heated, it begins to change into the austenite phase. The temperature at which this phenomenon starts is often referred to as austenite start temperature (A_s). The temperature at which this phenomenon is complete is called the austenite finish temperature (A_f).

When the shape-memory alloy is in the austenite phase and is cooled, it begins to change into the martensite phase, and the temperature at which this phenomenon starts is referred to as the martensite start temperature (M_s). The temperature at which austenite finishes transforming to martensite is called the martensite finish temperature (M_f). Generally, the shape-memory alloys are softer and more easily deformable in their martensitic phase and are harder, stiffer, and/or more rigid in the austenitic phase.

Shape-memory alloys can exhibit a one-way shape-memory effect, an intrinsic two-way effect, or an extrinsic two-way shape-memory effect depending on the alloy composition and processing history. Annealed shape-memory alloys typically only exhibit the one-way shape-memory effect. Sufficient heating subsequent to low-temperature deformation of the shape-memory material will induce the martensite to austenite type transition, and the material will recover the original, annealed shape. Hence, one-way shape-memory effects are only observed upon heating. Active materials comprising shape-memory alloy compositions that exhibit one-way memory effects do not automatically reform, and require an external mechanical force to return the shape to its previous configuration.

Intrinsic and extrinsic two-way shape-memory materials are characterized by a shape transition (i.e., from a first shape to a second shape) both upon heating from the martensite phase to the austenite phase, as well as an additional shape transition (i.e., from the second shape to the first shape) upon cooling from the austenite phase back to the martensite phase. With regard to the present disclosure, the shape-memory alloys described herein exhibit a two-way shape-memory effect. Active materials that exhibit an intrinsic shape-memory effect are fabricated from a shape-memory alloy composition that will cause the active materials to automatically reform themselves as a result of the above noted phase transformations. Intrinsic two-way shape-memory behavior must be induced in the shape-memory material through processing. Such procedures include extreme deformation of the material while in the martensite phase, heating-cooling under constraint or load, or surface modification such as laser annealing, polishing, or shot-peening. Once the material has been trained to exhibit the two-way shape-memory effect, the shape change between the low and high temperature states is generally reversible and persists through a high number of thermal cycles. In contrast, active materials that exhibit the extrinsic two-way shape-memory effects are composite or multi-component materials that combine a shape-memory alloy composition that exhibits a one-way effect with another element that provides a restoring force to reform the original shape.

The temperature at which the shape-memory alloy remembers its high temperature form when heated is adjustable by slight changes in the composition of the alloy and through heat treatment. In nickel-titanium shape-memory alloys, for instance, it is changeable from above about 100° C. to below about −100° C. The shape recovery process occurs over a range of just a few degrees and the start or finish of the transformation is controllable to within a degree or two depending on the desired application and alloy composition. The mechanical properties of the shape-memory alloy vary greatly over the temperature range spanning their transformation, typically providing the system with shape-memory effects, superelastic effects, and high damping capacity.

Suitable shape-memory alloy materials include, without limitation, nickel-titanium based alloys, indium-titanium based alloys, nickel-aluminum based alloys, nickel-gallium based alloys, copper based alloys (e.g., copper-zinc alloys, copper-aluminum alloys, copper-gold, and copper-tin alloys), gold-cadmium based alloys, silver-cadmium based alloys, indium-cadmium based alloys, manganese-copper based alloys, iron-platinum based alloys, iron-platinum based alloys, iron-palladium based alloys, and the like. The alloys can be binary, ternary, or any higher order so long as the alloy composition exhibits a shape-memory effect, e.g., change in shape orientation, damping capacity, and the like.

Shape-memory alloys exhibit a modulus increase of 2.5 times and a dimensional change of up to 8% (depending on the amount of pre-strain) when heated above their martensite to austenite phase transition temperature. Stress induced phase changes in shape-memory alloys known as superelasticity (or pseudoelasticity) refer to the ability of shape-memory alloys to return to its original shape upon unloading after a substantial deformation in a two-way manner. Application of sufficient stress when shape-memory alloys are in their austenitic phase will cause them to change to their lower modulus martensitic phase in which they can exhibit up to 8% of superelastic deformation. Removal of the applied stress will cause the shape-memory alloys to switch back to their austenitic phase in so doing recovering their starting shape and higher modulus, and dissipating energy. More particularly, the application of an externally applied stress causes martensite to form at temperatures higher than the martensite start temperature M_s. The macroscopic deformation is accommodated by the formation of martensite. When the stress is released, the martensite phase transforms back into the austenite phase and the shape-memory alloys return back to their original shape. Superelastic shape-memory alloys can be strained several times more than ordinary metal alloys without being permanently plastically deformed, however, this is only observed over a specific temperature range, with the largest ability to recover occurring close to the austenite finish temperature A_f. Additional information regarding shape-memory alloys is provided in U.S. Pat. No. 9,316,212 to Browne et al., which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Example embodiments of shape-memory alloys are commercially available from Modti, Inc. of Joensuu, Finland.

Accordingly, in reference to the present disclosure, the shape-memory alloy, in some embodiments, provides a two-way shape-memory effect. Thus, the shape-memory alloy is configured to change shape in response to heat produced from electrical current provided by a power source from a first shape to a second shape (i.e., from the martensite phase to the austenite phase) and return to the first shape from the second shape (from the austenite phase back to the martensite phase) upon cooling. Preferably, in some embodiments, the shape-memory alloy comprises a nickel-titanium alloy having the following properties: an austenite finish temperature A_fof between about 70 degrees Celsius and about 80 degrees Celsius, an austenite start temperature A_sof between about 50 degrees Celsius and about 60 degrees Celsius, a martensite start temperature M_sof between about 15 degrees Celsius and about 20 degrees Celsius, and a martensite finish temperature M_fof between about 40 degrees Celsius and about 50 degrees Celsius.

In reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1A</figref>, the shape-memory alloy is configured as a logo <b>112</b>, in a first shape, and disposed on the panel <b>110</b>. In the first shape, the logo <b>112</b> is substantially coplanar with the panel <b>110</b>. More particularly, the logo <b>112</b> appears to be integrated with the panel <b>110</b> when viewed by a consumer from a front or side of the panel <b>110</b>. Conversely, and in reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1B</figref>, the logo <b>112</b> is in a second shape. In the second shape, the logo <b>112</b> is substantially non-coplanar with the panel <b>110</b>. More particularly, the logo <b>112</b> projects outwardly from a surrounding portion of the panel <b>110</b> when viewed by a consumer from a front or side of the panel <b>110</b>. Thus, in embodiments in which the product display assembly <b>102</b> includes the logo <b>112</b> comprising a shape-memory alloy, the logo <b>112</b> is configured to attract attention to the product display system <b>100</b> as a whole by changing from the first shape to the second shape. Additionally or alternatively, the logo <b>112</b> is configured to draw a consumer's attention directly to the one or more retail products packaged in a retail product package, generally designated <b>200</b>, due to inclusion therein.

In a further embodiment, one or more of the retail products <b>200</b> include logos, brand names or other product identifiers, images, pricing information, or various other such information and/or graphics comprising a shape-memory alloy. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2A-2B</figref> illustrate a more detailed view of the retail products <b>200</b> illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1A-1B</figref>. Although a single retail product <b>200</b> is illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2A-2B</figref>, each of the retail products <b>200</b> displayed at the product display assembly <b>102</b> may comprise a shape-memory alloy forming at least one of a logo, a brand name or other product identifier, an image, pricing information, and the like. Notably, as described herein, a “retail product” refers to both a retail product, itself, as well as the packaging. For example, a retail product includes a package containing loose tobacco as well as the tobacco itself. However, for the purposes of this disclosure, only the packaging of the retail product will be described in any detail.

The retail product <b>200</b> is configured to be advertised and sold in a bricks and mortar retail establishment, and be displayed on a product display assembly, like assembly <b>102</b> in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1A-1B</figref>. The retail product <b>200</b> is also configured to be displayed without a designated assembly, such as, for example, on a shelf of the bricks and mortar retail establishment.

The packaging of the retail product <b>200</b> is configured, in some embodiments, to include a logo <b>202</b> comprising a shape-memory alloy configured to change from a first shape to a second shape in response to heat produced from electrical current provided by a power source. The power source, in some embodiments, is a different power source than that which powers the logo <b>112</b> described with regard to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1A-1B</figref>. However, the power source, in other embodiments, is a same power source as that which powers the logo <b>112</b>.

In some embodiments, the retail product <b>200</b> comprises a container having a bottom portion <b>204</b>, which acts as a receptacle, and a top portion <b>206</b> which acts as a lid. Depending on a disposition of the retail product <b>200</b> in a display assembly, the logo <b>202</b>, or other advertising/marketing indicia, may be disposed in various locations relative to a surface of the retail product <b>200</b>. For example, where the retail product <b>200</b> is displayed in a product display assembly, like the product display assembly <b>102</b> illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1A-1B</figref>, such that circumferential side surfaces of the bottom portion <b>204</b> and the top portion <b>206</b> are on display, the logo <b>202</b> is disposed on a circumferential side surface of the bottom portion <b>204</b> and/or the top portion <b>206</b>. In another example, and as illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2A-2B</figref>, where the retail product <b>200</b> is displayed in a product display assembly, like the product display assembly <b>102</b>, such that a top surface <b>208</b> of the lid is viewable by the consumer when the product <b>200</b> is on display, the logo <b>202</b> is disposed on the top surface <b>208</b>. Regardless, the retail product is displayed such that the logo <b>202</b> is most clearly viewable by the consumer when approaching or near the retail product <b>200</b>, as displayed. In other words, the product display assembly <b>102</b> may be configured to support the retail product <b>200</b> such that the logo <b>202</b> is exposed, and thereby visible.

Accordingly, and in reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2A</figref>, the top surface <b>208</b> displays the logo <b>202</b> in a first shape, where the logo <b>202</b> comprises a shape-memory alloy, such as nickel-titanium. Notably, the shape-memory alloy of the logo <b>202</b> comprises the same properties, characteristics, etc., as that described above in reference to the shape-memory alloy in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1A-1B</figref>. In the first shape, the logo <b>202</b> substantially matches the shape of surrounding structure of the top surface <b>208</b>. More particularly, the logo <b>202</b> appears to be substantially integrated with or is recessed within a surrounding portion of the top surface <b>208</b> when viewed by a consumer from a front or side of the top surface <b>208</b>. For example, where the top surface <b>208</b> is substantially planar, the logo <b>202</b> is substantially coplanar with the top surface <b>208</b> such that the logo <b>202</b> does not protrude from the top surface <b>208</b>. In another example, where the top surface <b>208</b> is substantially curved or otherwise contoured, the logo <b>202</b> comprises curvature that corresponds to the curvature of the top surface <b>208</b> such that the logo <b>202</b> does not protrude from the top surface <b>208</b> at any point along the curvature of the top surface <b>208</b>. In a still further example, only one or more portions of the logo <b>202</b> do not protrude from the top surface <b>208</b>, while other portions of the logo <b>202</b> do protrude from the top surface <b>208</b>, when the logo <b>202</b> is in the first shape.

Conversely, and in reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2B</figref>, the top surface <b>208</b> of the top portion <b>206</b> displays the logo <b>202</b> in a second shape. In the second shape, the logo <b>202</b> is substantially raised or projects from the surrounding structure of the top surface <b>208</b>. More particularly, the logo <b>202</b> protrudes or extends outwardly from a surrounding portion of the top surface <b>208</b> when viewed by a consumer from a front or side of the top surface <b>208</b>. For example, where the top surface <b>208</b> is substantially planar, the logo <b>202</b> is substantially non-coplanar with the top surface <b>208</b> such that the logo <b>202</b> is raised from the planar top surface <b>208</b>. In another example, where the top surface <b>208</b> is substantially curved or otherwise contoured, the logo <b>202</b> protrudes from the top surface <b>208</b> at any point along the curvature of the top surface <b>208</b>. In a still further example, only one or more portions of the logo <b>202</b> protrude from the top surface <b>208</b>, while other portions of the logo <b>202</b> do not protrude from the top surface <b>208</b>, when the logo <b>202</b> is in the second shape.

Thus, in embodiments in which the retail product <b>200</b> includes the logo <b>202</b> comprising a shape-memory alloy, the logo <b>202</b> is configured to attract attention to the retail product <b>200</b> by changing from the first shape to the second shape.

In some embodiments the entirety of the component including the logo (e.g., the top portion) may comprise the shape-memory alloy. This configuration may allow for simplified construction of the component including the shape-memory alloy. In other embodiments the logo may comprise a shape-memory alloy, whereas a remainder of the component at which the logo is located may comprise one or more materials other than the shape-memory alloy. This configuration may reduce material costs and/or allow for usage of other materials in other portions of the component that may provide desirable properties such as venting. Similarly, in embodiments of the product display assembly including a logo configured to change shape, the entirety of the component including the logo may comprise the shape-memory alloy, or a portion thereof at which the logo is positioned.

Referring now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>, an exemplary schematic illustrating components, generally designated <b>300</b>, of one or both of the product display assembly <b>102</b> and the retail product <b>200</b> is provided. The components <b>300</b> include a power source <b>302</b> configured to output electrical current to heat a shape-memory alloy in either one or both of the product display assembly <b>102</b> and the retail product <b>200</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1A-2B</figref>). As illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>, the power source <b>302</b> is configured to output current to heat a shape-memory alloy (e.g., the logo <b>112</b>, the logo <b>202</b>, etc.), generically designated <b>304</b> by way of a heating element <b>306</b>. In this regard, the power source <b>302</b> is hardwired or otherwise physically connected to a heating element <b>306</b>, such that the heating element <b>306</b> receives the electrical current produced by the power source <b>302</b> and generates heat in response thereto. By way of example, the power source <b>302</b> is configured to directly supply the electrical current to multiple heating elements <b>306</b> individually associated with each of the retail products, as well as at least one associated with the product display assembly (e.g., <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1A-2B</figref>). Although the heating element <b>306</b> is indicated as being a separate element as compared to the shape memory alloy <b>304</b>, in other embodiments the shape memory alloy may itself produce the heat when electrical current is applied thereto from the power source <b>302</b>. In this regard, the shape memory alloy <b>304</b> may produce heat as a result of joule heating when electrical current is applied therethrough.

In some embodiments, the power source <b>302</b> comprises an electrical cord configured to plug into an electrical wall outlet. In embodiments in which the heating element(s) <b>306</b> are powered by direct current (DC), the power source <b>302</b> further comprises an alternating current (AC) to DC power inverter. Accordingly, in embodiments in which the power source <b>302</b> comprises an electrical cord configured to receive power, the product display system <b>100</b> is positioned proximate an electrical wall outlet.

However, in other embodiments, it is desirable to power the product display system <b>100</b> without an electrical cord connected to an electrical outlet. In this regard, electrical outlets may not be readily available in retail establishments at locations at which the product display system <b>100</b> is positioned. Accordingly, in another embodiment, the power source <b>302</b> comprises a battery. The battery is replaceable, rechargeable, or configured to last a lifetime of the product display assembly <b>102</b> and/or the retail product <b>200</b>.

Further, in an alternative embodiment, the power source <b>302</b> is configured to employ energy harvesting to produce the electrical current. In this embodiment, the power source <b>302</b> is configured to receive and convert ambient energy into the electrical current. The ambient energy comes from electric or magnetic fields or radio waves from nearby electrical equipment, light, thermal energy (e.g., heat), or kinetic energy such as vibration or motion.

In this regard, by way of example, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1A-1B</figref> illustrate a power source for the system <b>100</b> that comprises a light-to-power conversion mechanism <b>114</b>. The light-to-power conversion mechanism <b>114</b> is configured to receive light from a light source <b>116</b> and output the electrical current, which is hereinafter referred to as the “first electrical current” to either one or both of the logo <b>112</b> and the logo <b>202</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2A-2B</figref>). Thus, the light-to-power conversion mechanism <b>114</b> comprises a photovoltaic cell, in some exemplary embodiments.

For example, the light-to-power conversion mechanism <b>114</b> comprises an amorphous silicon solar cell (a-Si), a biohybrid solar cell, a buried contact solar cell, a cadmium telluride solar cell (CdTe), a concentrated photovoltaic cell (CVP and HCVP), a copper indium gallium selenide solar cell (CI(G)S), a crystalline silicon solar cell (c-Si), a dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC), a gallium arsenide germanium solar cell (GaAs), a hybrid solar cell, a luminescent solar concentrator cell (LSC), a micromorph solar cell (tandem-cell using a-Si/μc-Si), a monocrystalline solar cell (mono-Si), a multijunction solar cell (MJ), a nanocrystal solar cell, an organic solar cell (OPV), a perovskite solar cell, a photoelectrochemical cell (PEC), a plasmonic solar cell, a plastic solar cell, a polycrystalline solar cell (multi-Si), a polymer solar cell, a quantum dot solar cell, a solid-state solar cell, a thin film solar cell (TFSC), a wafer solar cell, or a wafer-based solar cell (crystalline silicon solar cell). However, the light-to-power conversion mechanism <b>114</b> also comprises various other embodiments of solar cells in other embodiments. Note that the term solar cell is used interchangeably herein with the terms photovoltaic cell and photoelectric cell, each of which refers to a solid state electrical device that converts energy from light into electricity (e.g., via the photovoltaic effect).

In some embodiments, the light-to-power conversion mechanism <b>114</b> and the remainder of the product display system <b>100</b> are located indoors. In this regard, many retail establishments are at least partially enclosed within buildings. Accordingly, the light-to-power conversion mechanism <b>114</b> is configured to operate in low-light conditions that exist in such indoor locations. For example, in some embodiments, the light source <b>116</b> comprises one or more incandescent light bulbs, compact florescent bulbs, light emitting diodes (LEDs), or any other electrically-powered light source configured to illuminate the retail establishment. However, as may be understood, the light received by the light-to-power conversion mechanism <b>114</b> is additionally or alternatively provided by ambient sunlight, which enters the retail establishment through one or more windows, skylights, or openings. Examples of photovoltaic cells configured for operation in low-light conditions are commercially available from ElectricFilm, LLC of Newburyport, Mass. Various other photovoltaic cells are commercially available from SolarWorld Americas of Hillsboro, Oreg.

In other embodiments, the light-to-power conversion mechanism <b>114</b> (and/or some or all of the other components of the product display system <b>100</b>) are located outdoors and configured for direct exposure to sunlight. In this embodiment, the light-to-power conversion mechanism <b>114</b> defines a reduced size as compared to embodiments of light-to-power conversion mechanisms configured to produce power from indoor light. Alternatively or additionally, the light-to-power conversion mechanism <b>114</b> employs materials that are relatively less efficient, which reduce the cost of the light-to-power conversion mechanism.

As illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1A-1B</figref>, in one embodiment, the light-to-power conversion mechanism <b>114</b> is positioned at the top of the product display assembly <b>102</b>. Thereby, a primary surface <b>114</b>′ of the light-to-power conversion mechanism <b>114</b> configured to receive light is positioned substantially perpendicular to the light source <b>116</b> (e.g., one or more ceiling lights) and relatively close to the light source <b>116</b>, such that the electricity production efficiency of the light-to-power mechanism <b>114</b> is maximized. Further, as a result of being placed at or proximate the top of the product display assembly <b>102</b>, the light-to-power conversion mechanism <b>114</b>, which may be relatively fragile and/or expensive, is positioned out of reach and/or out of view of consumers such that damage to the light-to-power conversion mechanism and/or theft of the light-to-power conversion mechanism may be less likely to occur.

Regardless, returning to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>, in some embodiments the heating element <b>306</b> is hardwired to the power source <b>302</b> or otherwise physically connected thereto to receive the first electrical current. However, in other embodiments, the heating element <b>306</b> is wirelessly connected or otherwise indirectly powered by the power source <b>302</b>. In this regard, in some embodiments, the shape-memory alloy defining the logo <b>112</b> in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1A-1B</figref> and/or the logo <b>202</b> in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2A-2B</figref> is/are configured to be heated by heat produced by the heating element <b>306</b> in response to receipt of the first electrical current from the power source <b>302</b>.

More particularly, the power source <b>302</b> is configured to output an electrical current to the heating element <b>306</b> so that the heating element <b>306</b> produces heat, in response thereto, to heat the shape-memory alloy forming the logo <b>112</b> and/or the logo <b>202</b>, where the retail product <b>200</b> (or the like) is displayed at the assembly, to the austenite start temperature A_s. In some instances, a same heating element <b>306</b> is configured to heat both the shape-memory alloy of the logo <b>112</b> and the logo(s) <b>202</b> of the retail products <b>200</b>. Otherwise, each of the product display assembly <b>102</b> and the individual retail products <b>200</b> comprises its own heating element <b>306</b>. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> illustrates a single heating element <b>306</b>; however, depending on the configuration, there may be N number of heating elements <b>306</b>, where N is an integer greater than zero. The heating element(s) configured to heat the <b>202</b> of the retail packages <b>200</b> may be included in the retail packages themselves, or provided in the product display assembly <b>102</b>.

The heating element <b>306</b> comprises, in some aspects, an electrical resistor that is configured to receive the first electrical current from the power source <b>302</b> and generate heat in response thereto. For example, the heating element <b>306</b> comprises conductive heating coils that are associated with the shape-memory alloy. In this example, a conductive heating coil is disposed in the top portion <b>206</b> of the retail product <b>200</b> and is configured to receive the first electrical current through either a hardwire connection with the power source <b>302</b> or a wireless provision of power. Likewise, in this example, a conductive heating coil is disposed in the panel <b>110</b>, or otherwise proximate to the shape-memory alloy of the logo <b>112</b>, wherever that may be in the product display assembly <b>102</b>, such that the conductive heating coil is configured to receive the first electrical current through either a hardwire connection with the power source <b>302</b> or a wireless provision of power. Other types of heating elements <b>306</b> are also contemplated in this disclosure.

In some embodiments, the heating element <b>306</b> is configured to receive the first electrical current from the power source <b>302</b> through a hardwire connection. Where a hardwire connection is utilized, in some embodiments, the power source <b>302</b> is electrically connected to the heating element <b>306</b> associated with the shape-memory alloy of the logo <b>112</b> and the heating element <b>306</b> associated with the shape-memory alloy of the logo <b>202</b> of each retail product <b>200</b> so that heat generated by the heating elements heats a respective shape-memory alloy. In this instance, each retail product <b>200</b> comprises a physical contact-based mechanism electrically connected with the heating element <b>306</b> and the product display assembly <b>102</b> comprises a similar physical contact-based mechanism electrically connected with the power source <b>302</b> such that when the contact-based mechanisms of each of the retail product <b>200</b> and the product display assembly <b>102</b> contact one another, an electrical connection is formed therebetween. In some embodiments, the shelves <b>108</b> comprise physical contact-based mechanisms only at a front position in each row or column at which the retail product <b>200</b> is configured to be viewable. In this instance, only a retail product <b>200</b> moved into a front position on the shelf <b>108</b> (i.e., only those retail products <b>200</b> visible in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1A-1B</figref>) establishes an electrical connection between its respective heating element <b>306</b> and the power source <b>302</b>. Thereby, electrical current may be directed from the power source <b>302</b>, which may be separate from the retail product <b>200</b> (e.g., included in the product display assembly <b>102</b>), to the retail product.

In other instances, the power source <b>302</b> is electrically connected via a hardwire connection to the heating element <b>306</b> of only one of the logo <b>112</b> and the logo <b>202</b> of each retail product <b>200</b>, such that heat generated by the heating element <b>306</b> heats only the shape-memory alloy associated with the heating element electrically coupled to the power source. In this instance, the other of the two shape-memory alloys comprises an alternate power source. For example, the power source <b>302</b> is electrically connected only with the heating element <b>306</b> associated with the shape-memory alloy of the logo <b>112</b>. In this example, each retail product <b>200</b> comprises its own portable power source (e.g., a battery and/or a capacitor), which may be retained within the top portion <b>206</b> along with an individual heating element <b>306</b>.

In some embodiments, the heating element <b>306</b> is configured to receive the first electrical current from the power source <b>302</b> through a wireless connection. Such a connection is advantageous, as it additionally or alternatively, allows for removal of the products <b>200</b> from the product display assembly <b>102</b> without requiring decoupling of a physical electrical connection between the product <b>200</b> and the power source <b>302</b>. In this regard, in some embodiments, it is desirable to wirelessly provide power to the heating element(s) <b>306</b>. Note that while usage of wireless power transmission is discussed below in terms of usage with the heating element <b>306</b> associated with each individual one of the products <b>200</b>, in other embodiments, wireless power transmission is additionally or alternatively employed to supply power to the heating element <b>306</b> at the product display assembly <b>102</b>, which may be a different or a same heating element as that associated with the products <b>200</b>.

In order to wirelessly provide power, the power source <b>302</b> includes, in some embodiments, a wireless power transmitter (not shown) and the product <b>200</b> includes a wireless power receiver (not shown). The wireless power transmitter is configured to receive the first electrical current (e.g., current from an electrical plug or a solar panel, as described above). As discussed below in detail, the wireless power transmitter cooperates with the wireless power receiver to produce a second electrical current. Thereby, the heating element <b>306</b> is configured to receive the second electrical current from the wireless power receiver and produce heat that heats the shape-memory alloy of the logo <b>202</b> to the austenite start temperature A_sup to the austenite finish temperature A_fin response thereto.

In this regard, the wireless power transmitter and the wireless power receiver cooperate to wirelessly produce the second electrical current. Note that the term wireless, as used herein with respect to wireless power transmission, refers to an arrangement in which the wireless power receiver produces and outputs the second electrical current in cooperation with the wireless power transmitter, without receiving the second electrical current via a physical contact-based mechanism. In other words, electrical current is not directly transferred from the wireless power transmitter to the wireless power receiver via a wire or other solid-state circuit, such that physical contact between the wireless power transmitter and the wireless power receiver is not required. Rather, the wireless power transmitter employs the first electrical current to indirectly cause the wireless power receiver to produce the second electrical current that is directly or indirectly transmitted to the heating element <b>306</b>. Thereby, as a result of no direct, physical electrical connection being formed between the wireless power transmitter and the wireless power receiver, the second electrical current differs in one or more respects (e.g., voltage or current) as compared to the first electrical current. Additional description with regard to wireless power transmission mechanisms and techniques is provided in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/725,725, filed May 29, 2015, to Rogers, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Regardless of the particular power transmission mechanism and technique employed, in some embodiments, the wireless power receiver outputs the second electrical current when the first electrical current is directed to the wireless power transmitter. In some embodiments, the wireless power transmitter receives the first electrical current directly from the power source <b>302</b>, (e.g., the light-to-power conversion mechanism <b>114</b>, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1A-1B</figref>) such that the wireless power transmitter operates substantially continuously when the first electrical current is sufficient for operation of the wireless power transmitter. However, in some instances, the first electrical current produced by the power source is insufficient to allow for continuous cooperative operation of the wireless power transmitter and the wireless power receiver to produce the second electrical current sufficient for operation of the heating element <b>306</b>. Further, in some embodiments, it is preferable to discontinuously operate the heating element <b>306</b>, such that the transformation of the shape-memory alloy between the first and second shape, where it is employed as a logo, text, etc., occurs repeatedly to attract consumer attention. In this regard, dynamic transformation of the shape-memory alloy may more successfully gain consumer attention due to the change in shape of the shape-memory alloy being more easily perceptible.

Accordingly, in some embodiments, the product display system <b>100</b> further comprises certain mechanisms described below that allow for operation of the heating element <b>306</b> to produce heat to dynamically transform the shape of the shape-memory alloy of the product display assembly and/or the retail product in a controlled manner. In some embodiments, each of the products <b>200</b> includes such mechanisms that control the heating element <b>306</b> or otherwise provide for a discontinuous change in shape of the shape-memory alloy. However, as noted above, some or all of the products <b>200</b> may be configured for sale, and such mechanisms provide no useful purpose post-sale to a consumer. Further, such mechanisms are operable with a plurality of heating elements <b>306</b>, such that inclusion in each of the products <b>200</b> is not necessary. Accordingly, in some embodiments, it is desirable to locate as many of the components of the product display system <b>100</b> as possible in the product display assembly <b>102</b>, rather than in each of the products <b>200</b>. Thereby, the total costs associated with the product display system <b>100</b> may be reduced, and relatively fewer components may be included in the products <b>200</b> so as to reduce the costs and size of the products.

In this regard, in some embodiments, the product display assembly <b>102</b> further comprises a control circuit. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> illustrates one embodiment of a control circuit—a controller <b>308</b>. The controller <b>308</b> is configured to selectively control heating of the shape-memory alloy by controlling output of the first electrical current directly to the heating element <b>306</b> in a wired connection or to indirectly to the heating element <b>306</b> by way of the wireless power transmitter in a wireless connection. For example, the controller <b>308</b> is configured to direct the first electrical current to the heating element <b>306</b> at one or more predetermined intervals or at one or more predetermined times of the day, which may be within typical retail establishment hours. Further, in some embodiments, the controller <b>308</b> controls a duration of time during which the first electrical current is directed to the heating element <b>306</b> in each instance in which the controller <b>308</b> directs the first electrical current to the heating element <b>306</b>. Where a wireless connection is established, the timing and duration of time that the controller <b>308</b> controls the wireless power transmitter to transmit a first electrical current to the wireless power receiver, results in the output of the second electrical current from the wireless power receiver being indirectly controlled.

In some embodiments, the controller <b>308</b> is configured to control the output of the first electrical current to the wireless power transmitter or to the one or more heating elements <b>306</b> via a wired connection in additional or alternative manners. In this regard, in some embodiments the controller <b>308</b> comprises a sensor <b>310</b>. The sensor <b>310</b> is configured to detect a human presence. For example, the sensor <b>310</b> comprises a proximity sensor configured to detect proximity of a human, a motion sensor configured to detect motion, or a sound sensor configured to detect sound. The controller <b>308</b> is configured, in some embodiments, to cause heating of the shape-memory alloy in response to detection of the human presence by the sensor <b>310</b>, as described by way of example above. Example embodiments of motion sensors that may be employed in the system of the present disclosure are provided in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/725,725, filed May 29, 2015, to Rogers, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Accordingly, regardless of whether or not the sensor <b>310</b> is employed, and regardless of the type of the sensor, the controller <b>308</b> is configured to direct the first electrical current to the heating element <b>306</b> either via a wireless or hardwired connection under one or more circumstances. In order to facilitate controlled output of the first electrical current to the heating element <b>306</b>, in some embodiments the product display assembly <b>102</b> further comprises a current storage mechanism <b>312</b>. The current storage mechanism <b>312</b> is configured to store the first electrical current. In this regard, in some embodiments, the current storage mechanism <b>312</b> comprises a battery (e.g., a rechargeable battery) and/or a capacitor (e.g., a supercapacitor). Thereby, the current storage mechanism <b>312</b> outputs the first electrical current to the heating mechanism <b>306</b> via either a wired connection or a wireless connection when directed to do so by the controller <b>308</b>. Thus, for example, the first electrical current is directed from the current storage mechanism <b>312</b> to the heating element <b>306</b> by the controller <b>308</b> in response to detection of a human presence by the sensor <b>310</b>, or once a threshold voltage or current is reached at the current storage mechanism.

In another example, the first electrical current is directed from the current storage mechanism <b>312</b> to a wireless power transmitter by the controller <b>308</b> in a similar manner. A wireless power receiver is then configured to receive the first electrical current from the current storage mechanism <b>312</b> and output a second electrical current.

Regardless of the power transmission method implemented, the heating element <b>306</b> is configured to receive the second electrical current from the wireless power receiver and begin to generate heat in order to heat the shape-memory alloy. Accordingly, either a wired or wireless power transmission technique may be employed to cause the shape-memory alloy to change from a first shape to a second shape, and vice versa.

A related product display method is also provided. As illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref>, the method, generally designated <b>400</b>, comprises positioning a retail product (e.g., retail product <b>200</b>, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2A-2B</figref>) in proximity to a product display assembly (e.g., product display assembly <b>102</b>, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1A-1B</figref>) at operation <b>402</b>. Further, the method <b>400</b> comprises outputting electrical current from a power source (e.g., power source <b>302</b>, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>) to heat a shape-memory alloy (e.g., the shape-memory alloy of the logo <b>112</b>, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1A-1B</figref>, or of the logo <b>202</b>, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2A-2B</figref>) of at least one of the product display assembly and the retail product at operation <b>404</b>. The method <b>400</b> further comprises changing the shape-memory alloy from a first shape to a second shape in response to being heated at operation <b>406</b>.

In some embodiments, outputting the electrical current from the power source to heat the shape-memory alloy at operation <b>404</b> may include selectively controlling, by a controller, heating of the shape-memory alloy. The shape-memory alloy may include a nickel titanium alloy. The shape-memory alloy, in the first shape, may be substantially coplanar with a surface of at least one of the product display assembly and the retail product and, in the second shape, may be non-coplanar with the surface.

In some embodiments, outputting the electrical current from the power source to heat the shape-memory alloy at operation <b>404</b> may include heating, by a heating element of at least one of the product display assembly and the retail product, the shape-memory alloy to an austenite start temperature in response to receipt of electrical current from the power source. Changing the shape-memory alloy from the first shape to the second shape in response to being heated at operation <b>406</b> may include changing, of the shape-memory alloy, to the second shape from the first shape in response to being heated to a temperature approximately between the austenite start temperature and an austenite finish temperature. The method may further include returning, of the shape-memory alloy, to the first shape from the second shape in response to cooling to at least a martensite start temperature.

Many modifications and other aspects of the disclosure set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which the disclosure pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not to be limited to the specific aspects disclosed and that modifications and other aspects are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.